RackChoice R35-6GB Hard Drive Enclosure

81%

19%

Build Quality

Cooling Efficiency

Ease of Setup

RAID Compatibility

Value for Money

Drive Swapping Convenience

Compatibility with Different Drives

Cooling Noise

Portability

Instruction Clarity

Customer Support

Long-term Durability

Storage Capacity

Overview

The RackChoice R35-6GB Hard Drive Enclosure is designed to fit in 3x 5.25″ bays, allowing users to install up to five 2.5″ or 3.5″ SATA/SAS drives. This storage backplane provides hot-swapping functionality, which is especially beneficial for users who need quick access to their drives without powering down the system. Built with a full metal body and an 80mm cooling fan, this unit ensures efficient heat dissipation, which is critical when running multiple hard drives. Overall, it's a reliable solution for those with large-scale storage needs.

Features & Benefits

This multi-drive unit offers impressive data transfer speeds of up to 6Gbps via SATA 3.0, making it suitable for high-performance applications. It comes with five SATA cables, simplifying setup and reducing the need for extra purchases. The enclosure is compatible with various RAID configurations, including 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, although a RAID card is necessary for full functionality. An 80mm cooling fan combined with the sturdy metal housing ensures effective cooling, which helps prevent overheating during prolonged use.

Best For

This hard drive enclosure is ideal for users with desktop setups that require multiple drive slots and efficient storage management. It's particularly suited for small businesses or individuals who deal with large amounts of data and need a stable, scalable solution. Tech enthusiasts who need fast, hot-swappable access to multiple drives for testing or storage-intensive tasks will also appreciate the flexibility and convenience offered by this hot-swappable storage backplane.

User Feedback

Overall, users have praised the solid build quality and effective cooling of this unit. Many have noted that it performs well even during long, continuous use. However, some users have reported minor challenges with configuring RAID setups, particularly for beginners. On the positive side, the ease of swapping drives in and out without turning off the system has been highlighted as a major plus, making this unit a reliable choice for those in need of stable performance and quick data access.

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Pros

This hard drive enclosure allows hot-swapping of drives, making it ideal for users who frequently swap or add drives.
The full metal body and 80mm cooling fan help maintain efficient heat dissipation, preventing overheating during extended use.
With support for up to 5 drives, it’s perfect for users with high data storage needs or those managing multiple drives.
Data transfer speeds of up to 6Gbps ensure fast and reliable performance, even with large data transfers.
The included 5 SATA cables make setup easy and reduce the need for additional purchases or configurations.
RAID compatibility (0, 1, 5, 6, and 10) provides flexibility for users with specific storage redundancy or performance needs.

Cons

The unit is relatively bulky and may not be suitable for users who need a more compact or portable storage solution.
Some users report that setting up RAID configurations can be tricky, especially for those without prior experience.
At 4.27 lbs, this unit may feel too heavy for users who need to frequently transport their storage system.
The 3x 5.25″ bay compatibility limits its installation options, particularly for users with smaller desktop cases.
The requirement for an external RAID card adds extra cost and complexity for users who want to use RAID features.
Not all users find the initial setup to be completely straightforward, especially when it comes to integrating multiple drives.

Ratings

After analyzing authentic user feedback from various platforms worldwide, including different languages and countries, the scores for this product were derived from verified reviews. Spam, bot-generated, duplicated, off-topic, and exaggerated feedback was filtered out to ensure only high-quality opinions informed the results. Both the strengths and pain points of this device are reflected in the ratings, providing a balanced perspective for potential buyers.

Build Quality

91%

Many users are impressed by the solid, metal construction of this device. The build feels durable and sturdy, ensuring long-term reliability even under heavy usage. Its well-constructed body provides peace of mind for those seeking a high-quality, reliable storage solution.

While most reviews are positive, a few users mentioned that the device's metal casing can feel a bit bulky, making it less ideal for users with space constraints. Some also noted minor cosmetic imperfections upon arrival, though they did not affect performance.

Cooling Efficiency

88%

Several users highlighted the effectiveness of the 80mm cooling fan in preventing overheating, especially during extended use with multiple drives. The metal housing also plays a significant role in ensuring the enclosure stays cool, which is crucial for maintaining drive health and performance over time.

A few users have reported that the cooling fan can be a bit loud when multiple drives are in operation, which may be bothersome in quiet environments. Despite this, it does its job well in terms of temperature management.

Ease of Setup

79%

21%

Most users found the setup process straightforward, especially with the inclusion of 5 SATA cables that simplify the connection. It’s compatible with a wide range of drives, making it easy to integrate into various systems without requiring advanced technical knowledge.

However, some buyers struggled with the initial configuration, particularly with RAID setups, which may require a compatible RAID card. The lack of clear, detailed instructions for RAID installation left some feeling frustrated during setup.

RAID Compatibility

80%

20%

Users appreciate the wide range of RAID options (0, 1, 5, 6, 10), which makes this unit flexible and suitable for different needs. The ability to set up complex RAID configurations is a key selling point for tech enthusiasts and small businesses who prioritize data protection and performance.

That said, the requirement for an external RAID card left some buyers disappointed. Those without prior experience may find the setup process more challenging than expected, particularly when configuring multiple drives with RAID support.

Value for Money

84%

At its price point, many users feel this product offers strong value for money. The combination of hot-swappable functionality, RAID compatibility, and robust build quality justifies the cost for most buyers, especially those with significant data storage needs.

Some users feel that the price is slightly higher than other, less feature-packed options on the market. While the build quality is great, the absence of additional features such as software or advanced management tools leaves some wishing for more at this price.

Drive Swapping Convenience

90%

The hot-swappable feature is widely praised for its ease of use, allowing quick and seamless drive replacement without shutting down the system. This is especially beneficial for users who need to manage multiple drives frequently or handle large data transfers without interruption.

Despite its advantages, a few users did mention that swapping drives occasionally requires careful alignment, as the slots can be a bit tight. Some also noted that the process can feel cumbersome when handling smaller drives.

Compatibility with Different Drives

87%

The enclosure supports both 2.5″ and 3.5″ SATA/SAS drives, making it a versatile choice for users with varying storage requirements. This broad compatibility allows users to mix and match drives, depending on their performance or capacity needs, which is a big plus for those working with diverse hardware setups.

However, a few users encountered issues when mixing drive types, particularly with older or non-standard drives. In some cases, the drives did not fit as securely as expected, which led to performance issues for those with outdated hardware.

Cooling Noise

70%

30%

While the cooling fan effectively manages heat, some users found that it is not particularly noisy compared to other units in its category. In most scenarios, it operates quietly enough to avoid being a disturbance, especially for users who do not run the system continuously at full load.

However, others have pointed out that the fan noise can become noticeably louder under heavy usage, which may be disruptive in quieter environments. Those in need of a truly silent setup may find this off-putting.

Portability

65%

35%

The compact dimensions of the unit make it relatively easy to transport when needed, fitting well into standard desktop spaces or small server racks. It’s a practical solution for those who occasionally need to move their data storage setup from one location to another.

On the downside, some users found the unit to be a bit heavy and bulky for frequent relocation. At 4.27 lbs, it is not the most portable solution for those looking for a lightweight or travel-friendly option.

Instruction Clarity

72%

28%

Once setup is complete, many users appreciate how easy it is to operate and maintain this unit. The straightforward drive installation process is easy to follow for most, with clear visual cues making it easier to connect the drives and start using the system.

However, the instructions for RAID setup and advanced configuration were found lacking by some buyers. These users found it difficult to understand the necessary steps for optimal setup, especially when dealing with more complex RAID arrays.

Customer Support

75%

25%

Users who reached out to customer support have reported positive experiences, particularly with responsiveness. Support staff have been quick to offer troubleshooting advice, and many users appreciate the overall level of service they received.

However, there are some reports of delayed responses or unhelpful information when users encountered technical difficulties. In some cases, buyers felt they were not provided with enough guidance to resolve complex issues related to RAID configuration.

Long-term Durability

85%

Many users are confident in the long-term durability of this unit due to its sturdy metal body and high-quality materials. Those who have been using it for several months have reported no signs of wear, and the cooling system continues to perform efficiently.

Some users did express concerns over the longevity of the cooling fan, as it tends to accumulate dust over time, which may affect its performance. A few users also noted that the fan's noise level increases slightly after extended use.

Storage Capacity

90%

The ability to support up to 5 drives gives this unit a significant edge in terms of storage capacity. This is ideal for users with large data storage needs, as it allows for easy expansion without needing multiple enclosures or complicated configurations.

While the storage capacity is a big advantage, a small number of users felt the device was overkill for smaller setups. Those with fewer drives or less demanding storage needs found the 5-slot capacity to be unnecessarily large for their use case.

Suitable for:

The RackChoice R35-6GB Hard Drive Enclosure is well-suited for users with desktop setups that require multiple drive slots, particularly those who need a high-capacity, efficient storage solution. Tech enthusiasts who regularly swap drives or work with large data volumes will appreciate the hot-swappable functionality and the flexibility of RAID support (0, 1, 5, 6, 10). Small businesses or individuals managing significant storage needs will find the ability to accommodate up to five drives a key benefit. The solid build quality, coupled with an 80mm cooling fan, ensures that the system remains cool and reliable during extended use, making it a good choice for those prioritizing performance and durability in data management tasks.

Not suitable for:

However, the RackChoice R35-6GB Hard Drive Enclosure may not be the best choice for those seeking portability or a more compact storage solution. At 4.27 lbs, the unit may feel too bulky for users who need to move their storage setup frequently or fit it into tight spaces. Additionally, individuals without experience setting up RAID systems may find the configuration process more complicated, especially since a separate RAID card is required. Users with fewer drives or lower storage needs might find the five-slot capacity excessive, especially given the product's size and price point. Those looking for a more straightforward, plug-and-play solution without complex RAID setups might find this unit less suitable.

Specifications

Drive Compatibility: Supports 2.5″ and 3.5″ SATA/SAS hard drives for flexible storage options.
Number of Slots: Can accommodate up to 5 drives, providing ample storage space for various setups.
Cooling Fan: Equipped with an 80mm cooling fan to maintain optimal temperature and prevent overheating.
RAID Support: Supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10 configurations, though a RAID card is required.
Data Transfer Speed: Offers data transfer speeds up to 6Gbps via SATA 3.0 for fast and reliable performance.
Material: Constructed from durable metal for enhanced durability and heat dissipation.
Bay Compatibility: Designed to fit into 3x 5.25″ bays, making it suitable for desktop setups.
Included Cables: Comes with 5 SATA cables to simplify installation and connectivity.
Dimensions: Measures 8.87″D x 5″W x 5.76″H, offering a compact design for most desktop builds.
Weight: Weighs approximately 4.27 lbs, making it a solid but manageable addition to your system.
Hot-Swappable Drives: Allows for hot-swapping of drives, enabling users to change drives without powering down the system.
Power Requirements: Requires a compatible power supply from your desktop system to operate the drives.
Mounting Mechanism: Can be securely mounted into 3x 5.25″ bays, ensuring stability during operation.
Setup Complexity: Installation is straightforward but may require some technical knowledge for RAID configurations.
Cooling Efficiency: The integrated 80mm fan provides sufficient airflow to keep drives cool during intensive tasks.
Drive Removal: Easy drive removal with the hot-swapping feature, ideal for users managing multiple drives.
Form Factor: The enclosure is designed for desktop use, fitting in standard 5.25″ bays for a clean integration.
Drive Access: Provides quick and reliable access to connected drives, particularly for users needing fast storage management.

FAQ

The RackChoice R35-6GB supports up to 5 drives, including both 2.5″ and 3.5″ SATA/SAS drives, making it suitable for users with high data storage needs.

The hot-swapping functionality of this device allows you to add or remove drives without turning off your system. This is especially useful for users who need to manage multiple drives or perform data backups without interruption.

The enclosure requires 3x 5.25″ drive bays for installation in a desktop. While the backplane itself is compatible with many setups, you will need a RAID card to fully utilize its RAID functionality, as it does not have built-in RAID support.

This enclosure supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10. However, please note that a separate RAID card is required to use these configurations. Users will need to configure the RAID setup through their RAID card and motherboard.

Installing drives is straightforward. Simply mount the drives into the appropriate slots within the enclosure, connect the SATA cables (which are included), and secure the unit in your desktop’s 5.25″ bays. Make sure the drives are properly connected to your RAID card or motherboard for full functionality.

Yes, the RackChoice R35-6GB comes with 5 SATA cables, making the setup process more convenient. However, remember that if you want to use RAID configurations, you'll need an external RAID card.

The 80mm cooling fan helps keep the drives cool during extended use, preventing overheating and ensuring consistent performance. This feature is especially important if you are running multiple drives or performing intensive tasks like data transfer.

If you're having trouble with RAID setup, ensure that your RAID card is properly installed and compatible with your system. Consulting the RAID card's manual or seeking help from online forums may also assist with the process. Keep in mind that users with little experience in RAID setups may face initial challenges.

Yes, the RackChoice R35-6GB is compatible with both 2.5″ and 3.5″ SATA/SAS drives, giving you flexibility depending on the storage capacity you need.

The enclosure measures 8.87″ in depth, 5″ in width, and 5.76″ in height. It weighs about 4.27 lbs, which is typical for a multi-drive unit of this size, but may be a bit heavy if portability is a concern.